In-ear adapter for earbuds

Abstract

An adapter for attaching to an earphone includes a sleeve capable attaching the adapter to the earphone and an ear portion including a tubular sidewall having a first end attached to the sleeve and a second end opposite the first end. In one embodiment, the tubular sidewall includes an outer surface and a plurality of fins extending outwardly from the outer surface. In another embodiment, the tubular sidewall has an inner surface defining an air channel extending through the sidewall, and the inner surface has a twin cone shape including a converging cone portion extending from the first end and a diverging cone portion extending from the converging cone portion to the second end. In one embodiment, the adapter includes both a plurality of fins, and a twin cone air channel.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to ear phones, also known as “earbuds,” for handheld electronic devices, such as portable media players (“PMP's”) as well as hearing aids, cellular telephones, and other devices adapted for hearing. More particularly, the invention relates to an ear phone adapter that provides enhanced sound isolation, improves retention of the ear phone inside the ear even under extreme activity and perspiration and minimizes acoustical impedance within the ear canal area.[0002]PMP's are popular to use for listening to music while walking or running outdoors or inside on a treadmill, for example. They are commonly used with earbuds, which are miniature speakers that fit into the ears at the entry of the ear canal. Earbuds are comfortable and well suited for this use since they are pocket sized, lightweight and independent pieces that are not as cumbersome to wear or carry as headphones, which have a connecting framework. However, ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]The present invention provides an earphone / earbud adapter with both improved retention and sound isolation.

[0012]In one embodiment, the adapter includes a sleeve capable of fitting around the sidewall of the earbud to retain the adapter on the earbud, and an ear portion including a tubular sidewall having a first end attached to the sleeve and a second end opposite the first end. The tubular sidewall includes an outer surface, and a plurality of fins extending outwardly from the outer surface around the circumference of the tubular sidewall. The outer surface of the ear portion and the fins are flexible to permit the ear portion to deform as it is inserted into the ear canal. The height, thickness, shape and spacing of the ribs may be proportioned to maximize the retention of the adapter in the ear, while maintaining sound isolation.

[0014]The adapter may be formed integrally from a single piece, such as an elastomer, for ease of manufacture. In one embodiment, the adapter is formed with an angle between the sleeve portion and the ear portion to permit the user to rotate the adapter to various positions with respect to the earbud for enhanced comfort and retention.

[0015]The present invention is well suited as an accessory for the popular original equipment earbuds that come standard with the most popular portable music players. The shape of the outer surface of the ear portion and the shape and proportions of the ribs may increase the retention and sound isolation of these standard earbuds. The shape of the inner surface of the ear portion may further enhance the desired acoustics of the earbuds.

Problems solved by technology

However, there are a number of drawbacks associated with earbuds.

First, they are often ineffective at blocking out ambient noise and preventing leakage of the amplified sound into the surrounding area.

Second, the position of the earbud in the ear is often not well controlled or aimed.

Third, many users find it difficult to keep the earbud retained in the ear.

The cord extending from the earbud is easily snagged, and generally swings or bounces with activity.

In some cases, the earbud can become further entangled in exercise equipment or become an annoying distraction when the listener must repeatedly stop his or her activity to re-secure the earbud.

Some users feel discomfort due to the earbuds rigid circular shape which can create too much interference and pressure on the ear.

A number of attempts have been made to design earbuds and related accessories that address the basic problems of retention, the improvement of sound isolation and in ear comfort, but these designs are still significantly lacking in performance in one area or another.

However, this thin foam easily tears, does not provide improved sound isolation, and the increased grip is generally inadequate to retain the ear piece to the ear with increased levels of activity and motion.

First, the hook feature adds considerable bulk to the earbud and is less convenient to carry.

As a result of the misalignment between speaker and ear canal, sound isolation is difficult to achieve and distortion caused by acoustic impedance becomes problematic.

All of the aforementioned in-ear methods still have drawbacks that cause inadequate retention of the ear piece to the ear canal.

The cylindrical elastomeric insert designs described do not conform well to the path of the ear canal due to the rigid structure on which they are mounted.

The result is a less than optimum fit within the ear canal area, uneven pressure exerted on the ear, and potential discomfort.

Another drawback of existing in-ear designs is the smooth surface of the elastomeric profile.

A hydroplaning effect occurs with heavy perspiration, such that the slightest activity and movement can cause the insert and the ear phone to become quickly dislodged.

Another drawback of existing in-ear designs is that the tubular support used for mounting the insert is poorly shaped to minimize acoustical impedance in that the sound pressure wave travels down a passageway that takes an abrupt change in area from the speaker diameter to the tube diameter and then another abrupt change from the tube diameter as it exists into the ear canal.

Unfortunately, due to the drawbacks noted above, existing ear phone products do not provide a comfortable product that is sufficiently retained in place on the ear during physical activities with a desired level of sound isolation.

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